While this is a work of historical fiction, it was inspired by true events involving seven courageous women fighting to protect and provide educational opportunities to their Black brothers and sisters during a time of social discord and racial tension. Specific information from the early 1900s is limited, but I believe the depictions accurately portray the time's events and attitudes.I had no direct experience with any of these seven women, so I needed inspiration for their characteristics or dispositions. So, I modeled the personalities of the seven women after those of my seven sisters. It was important to show the individual strength, perseverance, and courage of each of the women.This story looks at the events of 100 years ago. There has been a significant change in the lives of African Americans over the past century, but given the events of the last decade, African Americans are reminded that we still have a long way to go. Always at the forefront of our minds: freedom is never free!